The route connects Wyoming to the Black Hills region of South Dakota, serving as a critical connector for rural communities. Development and Environmental Considerations
Studies along the corridor, particularly in Colorado, have investigated habitat connectivity, as the highway affects the movements of predators and wildlife like elk. Highway 85
It is part of the CanAm Highway and serves as a vital link for the energy industry, particularly in North Dakota. The route connects Wyoming to the Black Hills
Major projects have been initiated to improve safety and capacity, including widening projects and the addition of passing lanes, such as those addressing wildlife crossings between Wyoming and South Dakota. Other "Highway 85" Designations Major projects have been initiated to improve safety
In Texas and New Mexico, portions of US 85 follow the historic Camino Real de Tierra Adentro trade route. Regional Highlights and Features